This is a guide to contemporary religions. It brings together the methods of both the humanities and the social sciences to offer an introduction to work in the study of religion. Religion in the Modern World is comprehensive in its coverage. It considers the main religious traditions of both Asia and the West, as well as new forms of religion and spirituality such as New Age. In addition to providing an historical introduction to each religion, the volume offers detailed and original analysis of their interactions with modernity. Topics covered include: religion, colonialism and postcolonialism; religious nationalism; women and religion; religion and globalization; securalization and sacralization; religion and authority; religion and the turn to self; the rise of new spiritualities.